As buyers snap up smaller cars, we reveal the five economical superminis that hold their value best

With cheaper running costs at the forefront of many motorists’ minds, more economical and affordable small cars are soaring in popularity.

Research by motoring group Auto Trader has found that sales of supermini vehicles, which are extremely economical
and great for the town or city, have grown their market share.

This year, supermini sales made up 26 per cent of the market, up from 24 per cent in 2008. And that popularity means rising prices. The average price of the supermini has risen from £5,454 at the start of 2010 to £5,642 over the last three months, according to the Auto Trader Retail Price Index.

Size matters: The original Fiat 500 is could cost you between £5,000 and £10,000 now - but where does its modern-day cousin sit among the superminis that hold value best?

The research also showed that running a
car is the main financial concern in the current economic climate for
households with a motor, placing it above paying rent, mortgage and job
security.

According to the report, 53 per cent of drivers are looking for a vehicle that was cheaper to run, with petrol prices being a primary concern for 82 per cent of this figure and the cost of car insurance being a worry for 67 per cent.

Jason Biffin, commercial director at Auto Trader, said: ‘Smaller cars are the most popular vehicles in the UK – and with good reason.

‘Not only are they easy to drive and park, but superminis, small family cars and city cars are a cost-efficient and affordable option for motorists.

‘In the new car market, manufacturers
are responding to this consumer demand, with a wider range of smaller
releases coming onto the market.’

On the up: While the average asking price for superminis moves up and down throughout the year, it is consistently higher now than in 2010.

Why choose a deprecation winner?

When it comes to buying a new supermini, drivers will be not only looking at how many miles per gallon they can get out of the vehicle, but also how much they keep their value.

This is Money, alongside Auto Trader, take a look at the five superminis that are three years old and have retained the most of their value and desirability in the secondhand market, based on motors bought on a 2009 plate that have covered 39,000 miles.

Typically cars that hold their value best over this period will go on to continue to do so, that can make them a good (albeit initially more expensive) second hand buy.

The reinvented Mini has been a success story with lengthy waiting lists proof of its desirability.

The Mini performs well in many areas – but the combination of a great looking car which is fun and comfortable to drive is the recipe for the reinvented Mini’s success. They can do between 40 and 74MPG, depending on the specification.